#ITSTARTS Pledge campaign promotes multiculturalism

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Midhurst/May 29, 2017 – Throughout the month of June, the County of Simcoe Local Immigration Partnership is asking residents, organizations and stakeholder groups to take the "Pledge" to raise awareness about multiculturalism and reduce racism and discrimination in our communities.

The "Pledge" initiative is an educational campaign and a social movement where participants are asked to complete a "Pledge" card and share a photo or video of their "Pledge" announcement through social media using the hashtag #ITSTARTS. Residents are encouraged to tag @simcoecounty (Twitter) and @CountyofSimcoe (Facebook) in their messages.

"With a growing immigrant population in Simcoe County of almost 51,000 newcomers, this is a great initiative to demonstrate just how open and welcoming our communities are," said Warden Gerry Marshall. "I took the Pledge and encourage our residents to join the movement and share their support of multiculturalism and acceptance."

"Pledge" cards, available in both English and French, are available through local libraries. It can also be downloaded through www.immigration.simcoe.ca/ITSTARTS which hosts resources, tips, and tools on taking safe and purposeful action against racism and discrimination. Videos and photos throughout the month will be shared and promoted through the County's website and social media channels.

The initiative was developed by the Local Immigration Partnership's Cultural Competency Working Group, comprising members representing human service organizations, educational institutions and boards, libraries, justice and policing, government, private sector businesses, and recent and established immigrant residents.

The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.